Expression analysis of depression candidates genes in blood of depressed children and adolescente

Abstract

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is characterized by dysphoria, poor motivation, cognitive impairments and anhedonia. As the lifetime prevalence is 16.2% and recurrent course is common, MDD is the leading cause of disability among the mental disorders. However, little is known for certain about its etiology. Genetic epidemiological studies have suggested that subtypes of MDD might have higher heritability, for example MDD in childhood and adolescence. It is possible that genetic studies of these more heritable forms of MDD would have greater success. In this study, we aim to find gene expression changes between children/adolescents with MDD and at risk for MDD and controls as well. For that, we will investigate a community sample of 23 subjects with MDD diagnosis, 43 subjects at risk for MDD and 92 healthy controls. RNA was isolated from peripheral blood collected in the first phase of prevention project and the gene expression analysis will be verified by Real Time qPCR technology using TaqMan® Low Density Array cards (Applied Biosystems, EUA). We will assess the expression of 13 gene relate to MDD etiology and three housekeeping genes, all in triplicates. We expect to find differential expression of mRNA, in order to discover genetics markers for MDD etiology in children and adolescents. A better knowledge of MDD etiology during childhood and adolescence may support the develp of biomarkers in the future. (AU)